Tigers

Report: Tigers Sign Reliever Jim Johnson To Minor-League Deal

DETROIT, MI – JULY 2: Jim Johnson #45 of the Oakland Athletics talks with pitching coach Curt Young #41 during the sixth inning of a game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on July 2, 2014 in Detroit, Michigan. Johnson gave up four runs on four hits in the sixth inning. The Tigers defeated the Athletics 9-3. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)

The Oakland A’s released Johnson, who is in his ninth season, on Friday. He recorded a 7.14 ERA in 38 outings for the A’s this season.

The A’s remain on the hook for his $10 million salary, so if the Tigers decide to bring Johnson up to Detroit, they will only have to pay him the prorated league minimum.

Prior to joining Oakland, Johnson had a 2.70 ERA over the 2011, 2012 and 2013 seasons, when he pitched for the Baltimore Orioles. Selected to the All-Star Game in 2012, Johnson led the American League in saves in 2012 and 2013.

The Orioles, who drafted Johnson and with whom Johnson played his entire career before going to Oakland this season, also had interest in the pitcher following his release by the A’s.